It has come to our attention that the Presidential Search Committee at Gallaudet University, through a comprehensive examination, has narrowed the number of candidates to six, three of whom are deaf.

We understand and support the efforts by the Search Committee to choose the candidate who will best serve the needs of Gallaudet University. Consistent with this effort, it is our hope that you will give due consideration to the principle of taking affirmative action to employ and promote qualified deaf individuals into positions of authority and responsibility. The selection of a highly qualified deaf individual to the presidency would certainly be a powerful reaffirmation of Gallaudet's commitment to the principle of affirmative action.